Refugio State Beach

Refugio State Beach is a coastal preserve in Santa Barbara County featuring a sandy shore that faces south within a sheltered cove. Tall palm trees line the beach and provide shade along the waterfront area.

The park was established in 1950 to protect the coastal land and make it available for public use. This creation reflected California's commitment to preserving beach areas for future generations.

The name comes from the Chumash language and shows the deep ties indigenous peoples had with this coastal area. You can feel this connection when you explore the region's local heritage.

The park has camping facilities right along the shore, plus restrooms, showers, and picnic tables for day visitors. A paved bike path runs for about 3 miles and links this beach to an adjacent state beach.

At low tide, rocky pools appear at both ends of the cove where you can observe small marine creatures up close. These tidal areas emerge regularly throughout the year and reveal hidden ocean ecosystems.

Location: Santa Barbara County

Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=603

GPS coordinates: 34.46220,-120.07300

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:51